Compact planar-integrated optical correlator for spatially incoherent signals

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Optical Engineering
• Signal Processing

Background:

• Traditional optical correlators face challenges in planar integration and processing of incoherent signals.
• Smart-pixel device arrays offer advanced functionalities but require compatible optical processing methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a new approach for the planar integration of optical correlators.
• To enable processing of spatially incoherent signals from active optoelectronic smart-pixel-device arrays.
• To analyze the trade-offs between spatial resolution, light efficiency, and system design.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a VanderLugt-type architecture for optical correlation.
• Implemented a folded optical system with all passive components integrated into a single multiple-phase-level element.
• Derived theoretical relationships between spatial resolution, light efficiency, and system design parameters.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated planar integration of an optical correlator.
• Achieved processing of spatially incoherent signals from smart-pixel devices.
• Experimentally validated high signal quality and low noise levels.
• Established key design relations for spatial resolution and light efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The proposed VanderLugt-type architecture offers an effective solution for planar integration of optical correlators.
• This method facilitates the processing of incoherent signals from smart-pixel devices, enhancing optoelectronic system capabilities.
• The derived design relations provide valuable guidance for optimizing future optical correlator systems.